Make a Pretty: Crochet 101: Learn To Crochet

So you wanna learn how to crochet granny squares, but have no idea how to crochet? Or maybe you learned how waaaay back at girl scout camp once and need a refresher? I am here to help. In my series Crochet 101:

 you will learn

Step one:
is obviously getting some yarn and a crochet hook. I learned how to crochet using an I {5.5mm} size hook and some red heart acrylic yarn. I made a rainbow colored pouch as my first project. It was rad.

{and yes… it was in the early 90’s}

For the first project, I am using five awesome colors from the Vanna collection, and my trusty size I hook. You can use as many different colors as you like. Or just one. You can find these supplies at your local craft supply shop, on Etsy, or sometimes at a thrift store. I like to get my supplies from Small Craft here in Detroit. check it.

psst: the best part of granny squarin’ is the
opportunity to use up all of your scrap yarn.

So, ok, you have your yarn and hook all ready to go.
next… check out this great video from my friends at Craft
You will be a pro at the foundation stitches for granny squares in no time.

 See, what did I tell ya? You’re super excited now, aren’t you???

{how many washcloths have you made already?}

Practice those stitches so that we can get started on how to read patterns! It really is so easy, as long as you have my handy dandy pattern decoder. Make sure you grab it, and print it out. I swear it will help immensely. 

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The Orange Peel April 12, 2013 at 11:56 am

Hello!
This is so awesome. I have been wanted to learn how to crochet for like a bajillion years…(yes, I know, that’s a long time). And know, I come across your stellar blog AND found the extra feature of learn to crochet! Who knew?
Anyway, have lots of yarn, thread but no crochet hook. I love Etsy, but suggest a store, but more importantly, a size for me to start with. The crochet threads I have are beautiful but thin as they were used to make lace, etc.
I am kinda broke right now and I would like to work with what I have if possible.
Any suggestions would be appreciated. I would like to order them today so I could get started as soon as possible.
Thanks for your help and information
(And your blog is awesome, btw)
Nancy (in sunny Orlando)

The Orange Peel April 12, 2013 at 12:32 pm

OK, since my last post I have found several roles of yarn, not lace, that I can use to learn to crochet with. So, that being said, which size should I get? Found several very reasonable stores on Etsy. Is aluminum or wood or bamboo best?
Darn, this is opening up a whole new world of discovery…
Anyway, thanks again.
Nancy in Orlando

Anne Hayman April 12, 2013 at 12:58 pm

I learned with worsted weight yarn by red heart. and a size J hook. I love clover brand hooks, but they are kinda pricey. I have found lots of hooks at the thrift store too. Joann’s has 50% off coupons that you can use to buy hooks {and yarn!} I’m glad you love my blog, and that you have found crochet. I love it.
xo

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